Key Stone Species (Sea Otter, Prairie Dog)

Front

What is a keystone species?

Back

A keystone species is a species that has a disproportionately large effect on its environment relative to its abundance. Its presence or absence can significantly impact the ecosystem.

Front

What happens to an ecosystem when a keystone species is removed?

Back

The ecosystem can collapse, leading to a loss of biodiversity and changes in the population dynamics of other species.

Front

What is the role of sea otters in the kelp forest ecosystem?

Back

Sea otters are a keystone species that help maintain the balance of the kelp forest ecosystem by preying on sea urchins, which, if unchecked, can overgraze kelp.

Front

What is the relationship between sea otters and sea urchins?

Back

Sea otters eat sea urchins, which helps control the sea urchin population and prevents them from overgrazing kelp.

Front

What happens to the kelp forest ecosystem when the sea otter population decreases?

Back

The sea urchin population increases, leading to overgrazing of kelp and a decline in the kelp population.

Front

What type of ecosystem do sea otters inhabit?

Back

Sea otters inhabit kelp forests, which are underwater ecosystems formed by large, dense groups of kelp.

Front

Why are sea otters considered a keystone species in their ecosystem?

Back

Sea otters are considered a keystone species because their predation on sea urchins helps maintain the health and diversity of the kelp forest ecosystem.

Front

What is the impact of a decline in kelp forests on marine life?

Back

A decline in kelp forests can lead to reduced habitat and food sources for many marine species, resulting in decreased biodiversity.

Front

How do prairie dogs act as a keystone species?

Back

Prairie dogs create burrows that provide habitat for other species and their grazing helps maintain the grassland ecosystem.

Front

What is the significance of biodiversity in an ecosystem?

Back

Biodiversity contributes to ecosystem resilience, productivity, and stability, allowing ecosystems to better withstand changes and disturbances.